Why Should I See a Gynecologist?

Going to a gynecologist is usually one of those taboo subjects that people don’t really want to talk or think about. Many women hate going and are often embarrassed. Gynecologist have seen it all and your issue isn’t the first they’ve dealt with. If you have any of the below issues, you should look for a gynecologist Des Moines IA.

Pap Smear

The first reason you should go to a gynecologist is to get apap smear. Usually, the first pap smear should be done around the time of puberty. While this procedure isn’t comfortable and can be quite embarrassing, it’s a very important procedure. When your gynecologist does a pap smear, they will use a speculum to open the vaginal cavity and take a scraping of the skin on the inside. The office will then send it off to the lab to have tests ran. Not only can this rule out any sexually transmitted diseases, but it can also help watch for cancer. Since your doctor will be looking into the area, they’ll also be able to see any spots or abnormal spots.

Heavy or Painful Periods

While periods should have quite a bit of blood, if you’re soaking through several pads in an hour, you should make an appointment. The same is true with cramps. There is going to be some discomfort, but you shouldn’t be doubled over in pain. Both of these can by symptoms of other issues, such as PCOS, Endometriosis, or cancer. The doctor can run tests and possibly give you medication that can help ease these symptoms. The worst-case scenario would be having to get a hysterectomy.

Frequent and Burning with Urination

Frequent urination and burning with urination are usually the biggest indicators that you have a urinary tract infection, or UTI. These won’t go away on their own and they can lead to many other issues. For starters, the infection could go from the bladder into one or both kidneys. This can cause them to fail or get damage that can’t be reversed. As soon as you notice these symptoms, you should make an appointment, so you can get checked out and start the medication that will make this infection go away.

Issues or Changes with Your Vagina

Finally, a gynecologist can help you with any vaginal changes or issuesyou’re having. This could be anything from a weird smell, discharge, or itching. There are so many different things that could be the cause of this and they don’t usually just go away. Make an appointment as soon as you can!

Keep in mind, these are just a few of the reasons why you should see a gynecologist. There could be others and the best thing to do is make an appointment anytime you are having an issue. It’s better to make an appointment and be told that everything is fine instead of not making an appointment and have a really serious issue going on!